Discrete Exponential Function Word Problems

In an exponential function, what does the 'a' represent? 

• SLOPE
• RATE OF CHANGE
• Y-INTERCEPT
• COMMON RATIO

The population of Winnemucca, Nevada, can be modeled by P=6191(1.04)^t where t is the number of years since 1990. What was the population in 1990?

The population of Winnemucca, Nevada, can be modeled by P=6191(1.04)^t where t is the number of years since 1990. What percent did the population increase each year?

You have inherited land that was purchased for $30,000 in 1960. The value of the land increased by approximately 5% per year. What is the approximate value of the land in the year 2011?

• $344,022
• $31,500
• $15,000
• $28,500

The population of Bloom Falls, Mass. (population 937) is slowly moving to a bigger city.

Every year the population drops by 1/5th.

What is the factor of decay?

• .8

• .2

• .5

• .15

The original value of a painting is $1400, but the value next year is 2240, and 3584 the next year. What is the factor of growth?

Does the following equation show growth or decay?
y=10,000*1.26^x

• Growth 
• Decay

You buy a new computer for $2100. The computer's value decreases by 50% annually. How much is it worth after 2 years?

• 225

• 325

• 425

• 525

More and more people are purchasing food from farmers' markets. As a consequence, a market researcher predicts that the number of farmers' markets will increase by 15% each year. If there are 6,200 farmers' markets this year, how many will there be in 10 years? (Round to the nearest whole number if necessary).

• 25,082

• 12,937

• 62,000

• 43,511

Which of the following functions shows an initial amount of $15 and an increase of 35% each year?

• y = 15(35)^x
• y = 15(1.35)^x
• y = 15(0.35)^x
• y = 35(1.15)^x